"The news of the horrific school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, in the midst of this joyous Christmas season, is a sad reminder that tragedy can strike at any time.

"Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this unimaginable occurrence and we hope and pray that none of you have an immediate connection to these events. That said, the pain of one is felt by all, so I ask that you join me and those of us here on campus in praying for the victims, their families, the teachers and personnel in the Newtown Public Schools.

"We also pray for the police officers and medical staff who are responding to those in need."